Where Is the Startup Folder in Windows 11?

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Windows 11 brings a fresh and modern look, but if you’re familiar with Windows 10, you’ll be glad to know that the essential features like the Startup folder are still around. This folder is key for managing startup programs that automatically run when you boot up your PC or laptop. Whether you’re looking to streamline your system’s performance or need certain programs to be ready as soon as you log in, here’s a quick guide to finding and using the Startup folder in Windows 11.

What is the Startup Folder?

The Startup folder in Windows 11 holds shortcuts to programs that start automatically when you log in. It’s an important feature for ensuring that essential applications, like cloud storage, antivirus software, or productivity tools, are up and running without manual intervention.

How to Find the Windows 11 Startup Folder Location

In Windows 11, there are two main Startup folders:

1. User-specific Startup folder: For the currently logged-in user.
2. Startup folder for all users: Applies to all user accounts on the computer.

User-Specific Startup Folder

To find the Windows 11 startup folder for your user account:

1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type shell:startup and press Enter. This command opens the Startup folder located at:
   C:\Users\[Username]\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup

Startup Folder for All Users

To locate the Startup folder for all users:

1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type shell:common startup and press Enter. This opens the Startup folder located at:
   C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup

How to Change Startup Programs in Windows

Once you’re in the location of the startup folder, you can easily add or remove programs.

Adding an Item

1. Create a shortcut of the program you want to automatically run at startup.
2. Drag and drop or copy and paste the shortcut into the Startup folder.

Removing an Item

1. Open the Startup folder as described above.
2. Right-click the item you want to remove and select Delete.

Managing Startup Programs in Windows 11 via Task Manager

Windows 11 also allows you to manage startup programs using Task Manager.

1. Right-click the taskbar and select Task Manager, or press Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
2. Go to the Startup tab.
3. Here, you can see a list of startup apps. To disable startup for a program, right-click it and select Disable. To enable it, right-click and select Enable.

Using File Explorer to Locate the Windows 11 Startup Folder

You can also use File Explorer to access the startup folder in Windows 11:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. In the address bar, type %appdata%\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup for the user-specific folder or %ProgramData%\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup for the all users folder.
3. Press Enter to navigate to the startup folder.

Why Manage Windows 11 Startup Programs?

Managing startup applications in Windows 11 is crucial for optimizing your PC’s performance. Too many programs can slow down the boot time and consume CPU resources. By enabling only necessary programs, you can speed up the boot process and reduce the load on your system.

Conclusion

The Startup folder in Windows 11 is a powerful tool for customizing your startup experience. By knowing how to find and manage the Startup folder, you can control which programs start automatically, thereby improving your system’s performance each time you turn on your computer. Whether you need to add crucial startup apps or disable unnecessary ones, the steps outlined above will help you tailor your Windows 11 startup to your specific needs. Happy computing!